The Best $250 AP Royal Oak Alternative? Casioak G-Shock GA-2100 Mod

Do you LOVE the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak but HATE the price? Well, you are in luck because today I take a look at one of the most requested watches for review on my channel. The G-Shock GA-2100 series has become a cult hit among watch enthusiasts, the Gentry, and even with so-called watch snobs, who typically scoff at anything “non-luxury,” but are adding them to their own collections.
Why is this? What is the appeal? What makes it so special? Is the hype justified? How does the watch compare to my favorite G-shock-the classic square DW5600? To find out, I mod the GA-2100 into what watch enthusiasts have lovingly nicknamed the “Casioak.” If you love the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak like me, but simply cannot spend that kind of money, then is this a worthy $250 affordable alternative? Join me in another DIY modding tutorial to find out if it is really worth it.
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[@chi-towncalifornia5916]

Dare I say that this modded Casioak is truly the rugged sports watch that the Royal Oak will never be? Yes I do.

[@theurbangentry]

A brave comment, but factually irrefutably true! Thank you, I like it. Best regards, TGV

[@japd7897]

This and the Royal Oak practically indistinguishable.

[@richardburns9772]

Loser

[@arabbit9396]

Why would you say something so brave yet so true 😁

[@arabbit9396]

Richard Burns you’re a little piece of 💩 aren’t ya old sport

[@stevedieppe4760]

Good work TGV loving back to the roots content. Really like the step by step approach to modding might give it ago

[@Aaron-ld6op]

Regarding the obstruction of the little window, you can actually press two of the buttons to shift the hands momentarily. Quite cool actually.

[@mSantsnj]

😳

[@mozzyviator2939]

@Harry Donovan mode and light at the same time... casio call this hand shift fonction to clear the screen

[@Biking360]

This is the kind of content I've missed. Back to the good old days again. Onwards and upwards. Stay safe.

[@shawnlavigne9069]

Thought about doing one of these metal mods on my GLS-5600, but at the end of the day realized that one of the things I love about my G is its lightness.

[@bestvaluewatches]

I would say this watch is amazing for modding due to the multiple colours that are available of the 2100 series. I got myself the titanium mod kit in the style of the square G and I love it. It’s perfect for me since it’s on my red 2100 so it’s a black/red combo!

[@jameslynch6657]

I have the all black model, it is my first g shock. I have been very impressed and often it has replaced my sub when I’m in casual. I agree about the shortfalls... not sure why they didn’t add $10 and give a better light and lume.

[@hacktheplanet.]

Wearing a cheap suit and talking about subs. Oh dear.

[@amitd5134]

What i like is that you have come back to ths humble roots and giving us awesome affordable amazing watches which most can envision to buy and enjoi. Love you and your channel

[@dicer4027]

The episode alot of us had been waiting for!! Thanks TGV , keep on rockin in the free world!

[@bobbyboldy]

When spending is limited the class of the person still is limitless. Enjoy in good health.

[@CoronaTheVirus]

Upwards and forwards

[@ScottBelleriWorkshop]

Loved seeing you mod the watch! I look forward to seeing more projects like this from you.

[@Veesaki]

Wow ! I remember when the Royal Oak came out I was a grad. student at McGill U. picked up a copy of the Wall Street journal and there was a full page advertisement proclaiming it. In 1979 finally got one ! I like what you did great video !

[@mattys1467]

I am awaiting delivery of the all black version. Cannot wait 😊 Loved the old TV section, very clever 👏

[@ExpeditedProductions]

Well done, TGV! Great mod. Nice job on the piece. Good job keeping the hobby fun and attainable.....even though the Casioak isn’t too easy to find now. Thanks as always. Onward and upward, my friend!

[@craig2100]

Surprising nice looking mod...Brilliant. Well done. I like the change up on your video and taking a practical approach to expanded horology enjoyment.

[@kaiserherman7914]

Again perfect timing for a nice coffe break to my study sessions

[@Martin_K_Ivanov]

I'm waiting for mine to come in the mail just today lol. Beautiful and rugged piece for the price! Greetings from Bulgaria! Stay healthy.

[@evildrmainstream...6767]

just picked this up but the 90's throwback version, super excited!

[@j.t.3739]

Great balance of hands-on work and review. A nice mod that is not going to break the bank and provide a good looking watch. Outstanding video!

[@alexlazenby]

Love my CasiOak. More still - loving this more interest-led Urban Gentry. Getting a fix for my watch passion and learning something too. Thanks matey!

[@johntocho8954]

Thanks TGV, I bought the green and simply love it!

[@koen8844]

Cool video TGV! The GA-2100 joined my collection about 2 months ago and I thoroughly enjoy it. The metal bezel mod is definitely on my "to do" list. Thanks for sharing and I'll be looking forward to the next one. Regards, Koen

[@theurbangentry]

So glad to hear the Koen, as always, that does not surprise me in the least!!! :D You are too cool my friend. Enjoy it. Best regards, TGV

[@scosprey]

Excellent AP “man of the people” video! Kudos! And, Hugo returns, if very briefly. More Hugo, please!

[@chazfromtheburg]

This mod temps me! Thanks for the review! Love the channel!!

[@ndupontnet]

My blackout GA-2100 gets far more wrist time than I would ever have expected, clearly a keeper !

[@christophermarshall3551]

Thank you for the inspiration!….I’ll definitely be doing something close to what you’ve done to yours. I absolutely love it!….now I can’t wait to buy everything and get the mod started.

[@mamr-wf8xl]

Congratulations on this classy video, TGV. Talent and wit when talking about this attractive Casio piece.

[@David-cq5ns]

I love the production quality of all your videos!

[@DavidDatura]

What a great mod! I’ve been a fan of this model for a while now, but actually didn’t know mods were available for it. I’m not really into that scene I’m afraid. But this looks fantastic! The Steel case and leather strap combo up the ante design wise. It does look huge on your wrist though 😆 all the best.

[@mikaellindkvist5015]

Got the all black version of this watch on release. Got to admit its really hard to se the hands on it, but it's so comfy I still wear it a lot. Also if you push the 2 and 8 pushers the hands move out of the way to free the digital window. Great video as always!

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you, I love that feature too, enjoy your blacked out version Best regards, TGV

[@mimmo2341]

I've never considered a G Shock watch until I watched this video. Very nicely done!

[@RevLev06]

I like the dail of this G-Shock concept and I would leave well enough alone myself. For me the Royal Oak add on does not cut the mustard, but to each his or her own. All the best - RKL.

[@SB-ih5cw]

I just got the red Casioak as my first ever G-Shock and absolutely loving it. Great size for my small wrist, uber comforatable and light. Probably a watch I enjoy wearing most!

[@simonthewatchguy6073]

Dare I say it .... The channel is better than ever!!! Love it. Really looking forward to more motivational talks on life, how to be a better gentleman, life hacks e.g fitness 24 min cardio etc. Keep up the outstanding work TGV. Thanks!

[@jacobbeaupre3940]

Fantastic TGV!! Looks amazing in the sun, I recently got a marathon general purpose quartz watch. Gonna be sad to see It leave my collection but gonna be happier to see it on my brothers wrist

[@SgtKong]

What a curious concept. You create some great content TGV. I hope your channel continues to thrive and survive. The hacks and bodges, tips and tricks are great as well. See ya on the next one👍

[@brianlaplume]

Great content TGV, you're back in the saddle!!!

[@rulsey23]

This is why I initially watched the channel. Love the music and chat. Feels like I am learning about something quite life changing then realise I'm learning about a Casio mod 😂

[@theurbangentry]

I LOVE IT!!!! Thank you my friend :D Best regards, TGV

[@JLchevz]

TGV has really good taste lol

[@tomsmith70]

Hello! Great video as always. What a wonderful mod! All the best, Tom

[@jimmccaig7946]

Cool looking update/mod. Great episode. Cheers from Scotland 👍🏻🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Jim! :D Greetings from Philly. Best regards, TGV

[@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR]

Love the fact we’ve got a mod show here!;) well done matey!! Love the look of this watch. Blacked out version speaks to me but obviously hard to read the time!!!!!!! Looks great!

[@diamondbed86]

Beautiful mod and video. Fun to see Philly also. Thanks!

[@davidgaddy4328]

I just bought mines a few days ago and I love the watch. I really like what you've done with yours it looks way more expensive.

[@TheMrFishnDucks]

Fantastic video. Keep up the good work.

[@kicksnfigs8658]

Got inspired by your vid. Waiting for my Stainless steel kit to convert my GA-200 Casio. Thanks for the very informative vid.

[@AADIBAWA]

MAN,, LOVE UR CHANNEL,,,GET LOT OF POSITIVE VIBES FROM UR SMILE,,,,,KEEP POSTING

[@dornierdo2172]

Great video as usual received my Urban Gentry mug in the post very pleased with it and recommend the merchandise. 😎👍🇬🇧

[@pgopal6]

This was an awesome video TGV!

[@jacobrich7785]

I've been waiting for this! Love my g shock !

[@Pmelendez94]

You should sell this modified versions, I would totally buy one!! Great video!

[@SEBBBBism]

Great job ,and like the way you made the vidéo,simple without hype

[@prokopisgeorgiou34]

Thanks for another great video TGV!

[@ryan_bitzer]

That is awesome, TGV! I didn't think it'll look good with a classy strap like the alligator or crocodile one you got for it until I saw the end result!

[@Inaac2008]

You're the one who has single-handedly boosted horological interest not just in the KZbin community, but on Facebook community as well... And thereby around the globe! Got my first Gshock, a DW5600 white version recently in India for just about $52-53 influenced by your love for Gshocks! Finally, saw the Royal Oak Gshock on your channel & that too with my favorite mod! Live long and prosper my friend TGV! 🖖🏼

[@doedeerdesign]

This is a great idea. Will add it to the wishlist haha. Thanks TGV! Cheers.

[@1richbish]

What a great video. A triumphant return to form. Well done TGV 👍

[@edteach3r]

Awesome video, thanks TGV. Not my favourite style of watch, but I love the mod.

[@AbdElHmyd]

Wow! Very cool mod! People will stare at your wrist multiple times just to check whether it's a real RO or imitation. But in the end, it's a real (but) CasiOak. Good video!

[@robfrancois281]

I’m looking forward to these purchases. I enjoy watches and love working with my hands.

[@alexm2113]

Keep the modding content coming TGV!

[@samourai8469]

Thanks for sharing your joy and passion

[@clydewakefield7349]

Awesome video idea! I've been seeing these in forums lately and I'm excited to see your thoughts 😀

[@frankgerace5997]

Just got a Casioak today. Mine is the black version with white hands and hour markers. I’m impressed by how quickly it arrived from Japan!!

[@heikowallauer]

Good morning TGV, great you covered the Casio Oak. I like the mod pretty much, very classy. Distinct design language, wear it in good health and enjoy your modded G-Shock. Best regards!

[@word-is-bondboxing890]

Wow. Excellent video. Joint looks classy as hell.

[@marinakyriacou6525]

I do very much enjoy your mod videos :D

[@leonelgutierrez7707]

Really good upgrade for the G-Shock! Nice video! Saludos desde Argentina!

[@PatDiCola]

Ordered all the parts for this mod just now. Thanks for the nudge.

[@sohilmaknojia8198]

Hey pat. Where did you order the parts from. Thanks in advance.

[@PatDiCola]

@@sohilmaknojia8198 Ali Express

[@sohilmaknojia8198]

@@PatDiCola Thanks Pat

[@enlightenedidiot9552]

I absolutely HAVE to get this... Fantastic!

[@alanmentzer8756]

Greatly enjoyed the modding of an affordable wstch. Thanks! 😎

[@petarnaumov1736]

Every day I’m learning new things. Thank you 🙏

[@blake3599]

Excited to hear your thoughts on the mini version, the GMA-S2100!

[@gerkremer3544]

great! i am seriously tempted!

[@martsec9330]

Really enjoy the video. Nice mod

[@Mr_Memer.876]

I've done this mod with the 2nd generation case and bracelet. Looks absolutely stunning.

[@theurbangentry]

Fantastic, how is it? I was a little dubious myself. Thank you Kit, Best regards, TGV

[@Mr_Memer.876]

@@theurbangentry the bracelet is excellent quality, and the simpler case shape really brings the AP vibe to life. The transition of the brushing on the side of the bezel wasn't perfect, but that's a tiny flaw. I've had a lot of positive comments both on FB groups and wearing it out, which was both unexpected and reassuring! I highly recommend. 👍🏼

[@olemanolete1]

Great video, as always !!!

[@steviee67]

I just bought the GA2100 and love it as an AP RO alternative very happy!

[@albertmateo6339]

I ordered the second version of this mod with the new ap looking g bracelet. Coming from China so still waiting... Great video btw...loved it

[@ryanmead3939]

Hello TGV, Good to see you my friend, what a fantastic little mod looks great good to see that you are wearing your PPE when out and about, take care out there, O&U your friend Ryan.

[@oldiesfreek]

Awesome mod! Love it!

[@deltabeta5834]

Love the vid, great stuff!

[@daleclark3138]

I looked at these but ended up getting a couple of the smaller solar atomic AWG-M100 models for around $100 each. I haven't hardly worn any of my Swiss automatics or Eco Drives since I strapped one the G Shocks on my skinny wrists. Don't even need to take it off at night to pick up the time signal from Colorado here in Missouri. Love the mod you did on the G-2100. Have a good Thanksgiving and stay safe

[@giannitromba]

Just got the transparent one... Love it!

[@thomasstemmer3680]

A great watch and as always a great video TGV. Greetings from munich.

[@joeblow9657]

I absolutely loved that classy and funny intro.

[@tubefriki76]

Another sharp-looking watch and tracksuit combo 👍

[@KrishanSedov]

I was actually about to do this with my GA 2100 but i decided not to as I really like the look of the all black case, but i think the mod does look great and something fro me to think about in the future. I decided to buy a Vostok Amphibia after that and it just recently arrived, really loving it. Great video, keep up the awesome work👍

[@ricardochaveste7367]

Not bad at all my friend 👍🏼👍🏼very cool indeed.... looks more expensive than I thought, way it go seriously absolutely eye catching...🤙🏼

[@jonmy357]

I know I'm late... but that roar at the start almost got me!

[@nicholasberglund]

Beautifully filmed. Well done! Awesome chanel.

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you so much Nicholas :D Best regards, TGV

[@mycasioforyoursub1036]

Loving the look! Planning on getting the Gold one myself for my Red GA2100 to do an Iron Man mod 😂 xx BenP

[@David-hv5lw]

👎🏼

[@talanbennett22]

Excellent, timely video TGV. Just this morning I was combing all of the "sold out" websites looking for a Casioak. Looking forward to a modding project when I get ahold of one. As always, your objective reviews with a dash of relevant history and design references are much appreciated. Keep it up, stay safe, and enjoy those walks around Philly!

[@TheKreattion]

I was planning on modding a seiko 5 so my brother could have his first mechanical watch for his 19th birthday but now you've got me second-guessing and considering this. It might be the perfect build for him. G-shock toughness for when he works out or goes biking, skateboarding or does water sports. Great Vid TGV! Keep it up, I'm loving the "new", post watchbox UG!

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you so much my friend for the inspiring words. You are a good brother and a gent for the kind words in your comment. Deffo go for the G-shock, that sounds more fitting for his lifestyle IMO. Onwards and upwards! Best regards, TGV

[@TheKreattion]

@@theurbangentry Thank you for the kind words! As well as the advice. I've definitely got some thinking to do!

[@ghostooo157]

Wow really cool mod I should really attempt at doing to mine Casio I like the second generation but I also like the creativity you had with the leather band

[@bowerbirdstyle7661]

Now I want one! Looks cool.

[@reytr0]

I also have the Gen 1 bezel and I've been wearing mine on the rubber for about a week and I love it! In fact, I prefer the shape of the Gen 1 since it retains most of the original G-Shock shape. Although I've been considering brushing the polished parts. Total cost for me was $99 for the watch and $35 for the bezel. Not too shabby.

[@a1exw152]

I have the gen 2, and I must say the finishing is outstanding, most surfaces are brushed and the new angular bracelet elevates the conversion to a whole new level!

[@almac7976]

3rd gen complete is even better.

[@almac7976]

3rd gen complete is even better.

[@jefferyneu3915]

Well done TGV!😍

[@philstark2765]

I've owned the blackout Casioak for while now and it has become one of my go to watches, just wore it today. Saw the gen2 steel band and bezel set and ordered that last week. Slow boat from China

[@refugiogolf1]

That look awesome! Thumbs up 👍🏼